Retail prices for smartphones and PCs are seeing significant reductions, with discounts reaching up to 40% on some of the latest models. These price cuts are driven by summer promotions and efforts by retailers to clear inventory ahead of the launch of AI-enabled devices in the second half of the year.
According to a Gulf News report, Notebook PCs and tablets, except the newly launched Apple iPad with the M4 chip, are currently available at substantial discounts. Even smartphones released this year have seen price reductions ranging from 10-20%, depending on whether purchases are made in-store or online. Some PC brands are offering discounts as high as 50%.
“The heavy discounts could make this summer the best one since mid-2020 for tech gadgets and smartphones,” said an online retailer. “Back then, it was about UAE consumers upgrading to the latest devices for work-from-home and online schooling during Covid. This summer, retailers are hoping to capture significant sales from shoppers who want to wait before upgrading to AI-enabled gadgets.”
The upcoming months are expected to see the launch of Microsoft’s new ‘Copilot’, an AI companion designed to work seamlessly across various applications. This marks the beginning of a series of AI-integrated devices entering the market.
“All tech brands are preparing to launch new PC line-ups that integrate AI capabilities and AI-enabled devices,” said Rajat Asthana, Chief Operating Officer at Eros Group. “What we see in the UAE market is a serious attempt to clear old inventory before the next big launches. It’s great news for tech retailers as we feel AI is going to stimulate new demand for device upgrades and drive growth.”
Industry sources indicate that PC brands are aiming to ensure ample availability of Copilot-loaded devices in the UAE and Gulf markets ahead of the school re-openings and the peak tourist and corporate buying season in September and October.